Ethel, MS
Population 217 · Mississippi
About Ethel, MS
Ethel is a small community located in Mississippi with a population of 217 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $36,389 per year, which is 52% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.8 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Ethel features a median home value of $76,200, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Ethel one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 121 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (56 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (24 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Ethel shows an unemployment rate of 4.4%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 28.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Ethel have an average one-way commute time of 15.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
6.9% of Ethel residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Ethel, MS
Compared to national averages, Ethel has a median household income of $36,389 (52% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $76,200, which is 69% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Mississippi, Ethel's income is 27% below the state average of $49,929, and home values are 39% below the state median of $125,705.
Why Live in Ethel, MS?
Ethel offers affordable housing with a median home value of $76,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and short commute times averaging just 15.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($36,389) that falls below the national average. However, Ethel’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ethel has a population of 217 with a median age of 31.8 years. Compare Ethel with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Mississippi.
Similar Cities Near Ethel
Cities in Mississippi with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Mississippi
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Ethel
What is the population of Ethel, MS?
The population of Ethel, MS is 217 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Mississippi.
What is the median household income in Ethel?
The median household income in Ethel, MS is $36,389 per year, which is 52% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ethel?
The median home value in Ethel, MS is $76,200, which is 69% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Ethel?
The median monthly rent in Ethel, MS is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ethel?
The unemployment rate in Ethel, MS is 4.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Ethel, MS a good place to live?
Ethel offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 217 and a median age of 31.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Ethel, MS?
6.9% of residents in Ethel aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Ethel?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ethel, MS: median home value is $76,200 (69% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $36,389. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Ethel?
The poverty rate in Ethel, MS is 28.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Ethel, MS?
Ethel's population is 0.0% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 13.8% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.